Jesus invites us to come to Him (Mt 11:28). He is the most attractive Person ever to walk the earth. He draws all people to Himself (see Jn 12:32). Jesus is not merely loving; He is Love (1 Jn 4:8, 16). We are drawn to let ourselves be loved by Love — by Jesus, God Who is Love. How unimaginable and mysterious to be loved by Love Himself!

Though we are attracted to the God-Man Who is Love, we are naturally afraid. "It is a fearful thing to fall into the hands of the living God" (Heb 10:31). He loved us by being crowned with thorns, shedding His blood, and hanging on the cross. We are naturally afraid to be loved by crucified Love. If we accept His love, this will necessarily change everything in our lives, and we will live in Love and Love in us (see 1 Jn 4:16). What will we do?

We hesitate to let Love love us. Yet this is the opportunity of a lifetime. This is all that we have ever hoped for — and more, much more. We want to run to Jesus; we want to run away from Him. Love draws us; selfishness paralyzes us. What will we decide? Some walk away sad into a comfortable, loveless life (see Mt 19:22). Others plunge into the ocean of God's love. What will you do with Love today and forever?

Rescript:  †Most Reverend Carl K. Moeddel, Vicar General and Auxiliary Bishop of the Archdiocese of Cincinnati, December 20, 2004

The Nihil Obstat ("Permission to Publish") is a declaration that a book or pamphlet is considered to be free of doctrinal or moral error. It is not implied that those who have granted the Nihil Obstat agree with the contents, opinions, or statements expressed.